4K projectors are quickly replacing ones with only full HD capabilities, and BenQ is producing a line of high-quality models. Two of them are the BenQ TK850 and TK850i home theater projectors.
The two BenQ projectors are identical when it comes to image quality. They are also easy to install, they have the same throw distance. The TK850i is easier to operate and offers more in the way of connectivity (>>> Check on Amazon). The TK850 is priced lower, making it a good value for your money.
Deciding between the two projectors can be confusing, so here’s a closer look at what you get with each model.
BenQ TK850 vs TK850i Specifications:
| BenQ TK850 | BenQ TK850i | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Resolution | 3840x2160 | 3840x2160 |
| Contrast Ratio | 30,000:1 | 30,000:1 |
| Brightness (Lumens) | 3,000 ANSI | 3,000 ANSI |
| Input lag | 83ms | No data |
| Throw Distance | 3.2' - 24.6' | 3.2' - 24.6' |
| Screen size | 30" - 300" | 30" - 300" |
| Internal Speakers | 5.0 Watts × 2 | 5.0 Watts × 2 |
| Price | Find on Amazon Bhphotovideo.com | Find on Amazon Bhphotovideo.com |
Image Quality
You get 4K images with either projector, the resolution is the same. You get crisp images with brilliant colors in most lighting. The projectors come with a 3,000 lumens light source, so most ambient lighting won’t interfere with image quality.
Image optimizing technology is also standard with both models. Along with HDR10 and HLG technologies, the projectors also use a dynamic iris to further enhance image quality.
Best Image Quality: BenQ TK850 & BenQ TK850i
Gaming Quality
Gamers aren’t going to be excited about input lag on either BenQ projector. The fast refresh rate keeps frames playing smoothly, but you will notice a delay between the gaming control and the on-screen response.
Input lag on the TK850i will drop down to around 63ms in sports and gaming mode. It’s a little faster than the TK850 but still too slow for first-person shooter games.
Best Gaming Quality: BenQ TK850i
Connectivity
Both projectors come with the same control panel, located on the back. Along with two HDMI ports, you also have three USB ports and network inputs. Ports to connect external speakers are also included. The projectors come with a 5W onboard speaker, but you will want to connect a more robust sound system.
The TK850i also comes with wireless Wi-Fi capabilities. You can mirror content from Apple and Android devices without connecting external devices.
Best in Connectivity: BenQ TK850i
Ease of Installation and Set-Up
Installing either projector is quick and easy. The TK850i weighs a couple of pounds more than the TK850, but at 12.5lbs it’s still a relatively lightweight model. You also get keystone correction, lens shift, and 1.3x zoom with both projectors, making image alignment a breeze. Throw distance is also the same. These are standard-throw projectors.
The TK850i is a little easier to set up. Along with built-in Wi-Fi, it also boasts an Android TV interface. You can download apps from the Google Play store, and it also comes with Google Assistant for convenient voice control.
Easiest to Set Up: BenQ TK850i
BenQ TK850
The TK850 produces 8.3 million pixels per frame, giving you true 4K onscreen images. HDR-Pro technologies ensure images are crisp with clear details, and colors are accurate across the DCI-P3 spectrum. Add in the 10-element crystal lens, and you get bright images without fading or dark spots.
The rear panel comes with all of the in and outputs you need to connect your external images. You also won’t have a problem aligning images on the screen. Automatic keystone correction takes care of image alignment. You can also fine-tune the alignment with 1.3x zoom.
Weighing a little over 9lbs, you also won’t have a problem getting the projector out of the box. Its compact size also ensures the projector will fit on any shelf or table. It is a standard throw model, so you will need at least eight feet of space to cast 100” images. Check its comparison versus the Epson 3800.
Pros
- True 4K resolution
- Easy installation
- Vivid colors
- Onboard speaker
- Bright light source
Cons
- The projector does not come with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities
BenQ TK850i
You get immersive images with the TK850i. Blacks are rich and deep, and colors vibrant thanks to the 10-element glass lens and dynamic iris. HLG and HDR10 support further optimizing image quality. Add in the 3,000 lumens light source, and you get bright onscreen images in most lighting situations. You can use the projector during the day without having to blackout the room.
The TK850i is advertised as a gaming projector, but input lag is too slow for most avid gamers in sports mode. What the mode does enhance are live sports. You’ll feel like you are in the middle of the action. For our more in-depth review of this projector, click here.
Installing the 4K projector is a quick and easy process. Its lightweight design, compact size, and keystone correction make installation a breeze. It also comes with built-in Wi-Fi, so you won’t need to use the HDMI ports to connect most of your devices. You will need to use the USB port to stream Netflix. It’s currently not supported in the app store.
Pros
- True 4K resolution
- Android TV interface
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Flexible installation
- Bright light source
Cons
- Input lag is too slow for most avid and casual gamers
Conclusion
Comparing the BenQ TK850 vs the TK850i isn’t easy. You get the same image quality, a built-in speaker, and a flexible installation.
The TK850i comes with built-in Wi-Fi, but it also has a higher price (>>> Find on Bhphotovideo). The TK850 is priced lower but lacks onboard connectivity. It comes down to what you want and need in a home theater projector when you are deciding between the two models.